tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1309991938230924502018-02-16T20:09:23.162+00:00A Raft of ApplesJoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.comBlogger675125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130999193823092450.post-87691215872583403712018-01-02T20:50:00.000+00:002018-01-02T20:50:57.591+00:00Zebra Art<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kHtCxVJIaPo/Wkvjb9AvCfI/AAAAAAAAP3w/TAeutDoSR3M1qLrrUoVeoakt4MQGquyJQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030585.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kHtCxVJIaPo/Wkvjb9AvCfI/AAAAAAAAP3w/TAeutDoSR3M1qLrrUoVeoakt4MQGquyJQCLcBGAs/s400/P1030585.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>A zebra glistens under the arches and is the creation of the Michael Joo which he called "Stubbs (Absorbed)" which is a reference to <a href="http://collections.britishart.yale.edu/vufind/Record/1669240" target="_blank">George Stubb's portrait of a zebra</a> , an animal which was kept in the British royal family's menagerie after it was gifted to Queen Charlotte.&nbsp; Joo was struck by the zebra's incongruous English countryside setting in the painting.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JcfNthuiY8Y/WkvjcjVZhsI/AAAAAAAAP4A/xk72uJgzrb8ewY74NjeckUBIHiDdxojfACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JcfNthuiY8Y/WkvjcjVZhsI/AAAAAAAAP4A/xk72uJgzrb8ewY74NjeckUBIHiDdxojfACEwYBhgL/s400/P1030587.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>It may not be obvious in my photographs but Joo's zebra has a highly reflective surface which is meant to absorb the external environment of the sculpture and he says he would love to exhibit it in a forest.&nbsp; Stubb's 1763 portrait was so detailed that zoologists from a later century could identity it as a Cape Mountain Zebra, the smallest of the species. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FWoX7OO3lKw/WkvjcaQ4RmI/AAAAAAAAP38/jZidXUIzL8YCcacIqDeWE1-1PKY2w45zgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030586%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FWoX7OO3lKw/WkvjcaQ4RmI/AAAAAAAAP38/jZidXUIzL8YCcacIqDeWE1-1PKY2w45zgCEwYBhgL/s400/P1030586%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>The mountain zebra was the choice of another artist so it must have been why Jonathan Kingdon's "Hartmann's Mountain Zebra" was placed nearby. There is a bit of a scientific dispute as to whether the Cape and Hartmann are two similar distinct species or the same one. The person to ask would definitely be Jonathan Kingdon for not only is he an artist and sculptor but also a zoologist and science author. It was while putting together his 'An Atlas of Evolution in Africa' that he asked himself the question - <i>what are zebra stripes for</i>? He continues "<i>After months and years of observation in many parts of East Africa and quantitative experiments with painted stripe panels I concluded that stripes, for zebras, had become a sort of bonding device... served to make any zebra attractive. An important quality in the progressive socialisation of a famous curmudgeonly mammal</i>"<br /><br />I like the sweeping mane on the sculpture and whatever the zebra stripes are for they are always mesmerising so here is the real thing - Hartmann's Mountain Zebra.&nbsp; <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Equus_zebra_hartmannae_-_Etosha_2015.jpg#/media/File:Equus_zebra_hartmannae_-_Etosha_2015.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Equus zebra hartmannae - Etosha 2015.jpg" height="425" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c3/Equus_zebra_hartmannae_-_Etosha_2015.jpg/1200px-Equus_zebra_hartmannae_-_Etosha_2015.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>By <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Yathin_sk" title="User:Yathin sk">Yathin S Krishnappa</a> - <span class="int-own-work" lang="en">Own work</span>, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0" title="Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0">CC BY-SA 4.0</a>, <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=44371362">Link</a></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet, this week sojourning at Z <a href="https://abcwednesday.com/2018/01/02/round-21-z/" target="_blank">here</a></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P9PEzRGAbAQ/Wkvu-oIDRsI/AAAAAAAAP4M/aYpfZSWeJKoHq_n1twJ6yx8Ci7oKAyIfQCLcBGAs/s1600/abc21logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P9PEzRGAbAQ/Wkvu-oIDRsI/AAAAAAAAP4M/aYpfZSWeJKoHq_n1twJ6yx8Ci7oKAyIfQCLcBGAs/s320/abc21logo.png" width="290" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">&nbsp;</span><i> </i></span></div>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130999193823092450.post-74983535150038749832017-12-19T19:49:00.000+00:002017-12-19T19:50:50.842+00:00Xmas Star<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nUuEIYSwKV4/WjlX2fNMwwI/AAAAAAAAPzE/scP4yeFwSTQWDowAA7Gjv2lvS_nooInlwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nUuEIYSwKV4/WjlX2fNMwwI/AAAAAAAAPzE/scP4yeFwSTQWDowAA7Gjv2lvS_nooInlwCLcBGAs/s640/P1030799.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I had nothing for this week's ABC Wednesday's Letter X until this shone into view on Saturday evening, an Xmas star.&nbsp; </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rueqnPTOEnI/WjlX2ZCyxGI/AAAAAAAAPzM/acSBbHOc9l0nruzQ6FZvjW36bVOcn0a3wCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030798.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="298" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rueqnPTOEnI/WjlX2ZCyxGI/AAAAAAAAPzM/acSBbHOc9l0nruzQ6FZvjW36bVOcn0a3wCEwYBhgL/s400/P1030798.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Well it must be said I could hardly miss as star standing 25ft high with 19,000 twinkling lights.</div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Wishing everyone a Happy Christmas and Winter Solstice&nbsp; </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mz_9iFDaX9I/Wjlo3HEgaqI/AAAAAAAAPzY/At8Y5y-T1Xozrk69IAPhAjbby9OwMdkXQCLcBGAs/s1600/11145166624_7f5ac39955_m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="159" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mz_9iFDaX9I/Wjlo3HEgaqI/AAAAAAAAPzY/At8Y5y-T1Xozrk69IAPhAjbby9OwMdkXQCLcBGAs/s200/11145166624_7f5ac39955_m.jpg" width="132" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet, this week sojourning at X <a href="https://abcwednesday.com/2017/12/19/x-is-for-exceptional/" target="_blank">here</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vAoyv3joKyU/WjlqoO25uTI/AAAAAAAAPzk/DFDbOsMmTjMrBA6jOmBsId4KSwZPuxAAgCLcBGAs/s1600/abc21logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vAoyv3joKyU/WjlqoO25uTI/AAAAAAAAPzk/DFDbOsMmTjMrBA6jOmBsId4KSwZPuxAAgCLcBGAs/s320/abc21logo.png" width="290" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp; </div>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.com5St Werburgh St, Chester CH1 2DY, UK53.1918337 -2.891068499999960327.669799199999996 -44.19966249999996 78.7138682 38.417525500000039tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130999193823092450.post-83277159456360483292017-12-12T20:49:00.000+00:002017-12-12T20:49:49.164+00:00Water of Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2K3RM7sBZFQ/WjAv2vzN9FI/AAAAAAAAPxY/vgwpx4ton38ZbJaqoTTPXtzCB81lZaZnwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030597.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="476" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2K3RM7sBZFQ/WjAv2vzN9FI/AAAAAAAAPxY/vgwpx4ton38ZbJaqoTTPXtzCB81lZaZnwCLcBGAs/s640/P1030597.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>For the 900th Anniversary of the foundation of the Benedictine Abbey of St Werburgh in 1092 in Chester a sculpture was placed in the Cloister Garden of&nbsp; what is now a cathedral but is where once monks walked and drew their water supply at the centre of the abbey.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gT4pYxbukhg/WjAv1w6yN8I/AAAAAAAAPxc/GXRzIWkb_ZY20zOWPN97B52FLm6kefYMQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030592.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gT4pYxbukhg/WjAv1w6yN8I/AAAAAAAAPxc/GXRzIWkb_ZY20zOWPN97B52FLm6kefYMQCEwYBhgL/s400/P1030592.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>The inspiration is the story of Jesus and the woman of Samaria&nbsp; and a quote from the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samaritan_woman_at_the_well" target="_blank">Gospel of John </a>is inscribed around the outside of the plinth - Jesus said "<i>the water I shall give will be an inner spring always welling up for eternal life"</i><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3AWKLrSmYKo/WjAv13i8rSI/AAAAAAAAPxc/6QOi-fI3MHIoKNIzsMbkbxBf5vefpJQPQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030596.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3AWKLrSmYKo/WjAv13i8rSI/AAAAAAAAPxc/6QOi-fI3MHIoKNIzsMbkbxBf5vefpJQPQCEwYBhgL/s400/P1030596.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>The cathedral cloister passage windows can be seen in the background.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GGmVosCE72Y/WjAv13Pp3PI/AAAAAAAAPxc/u4puiFCtNXornv0jBahUdhnJ63bbSxQDQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030593%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GGmVosCE72Y/WjAv13Pp3PI/AAAAAAAAPxc/u4puiFCtNXornv0jBahUdhnJ63bbSxQDQCEwYBhgL/s400/P1030593%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>and the garden is as popular place to sit and walk as I imagine it was all those hundred of years ago for the monks.&nbsp; <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet, this week sojourning at W <a href="https://abcwednesday.com/2017/12/12/21-w-by-daphne/" target="_blank">here</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LInf8vdtxlg/WjA4esMefnI/AAAAAAAAPxo/sOWe8RPDgL4IGdvGH2Ql5WOUNx3q9fNNgCLcBGAs/s1600/abc21logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LInf8vdtxlg/WjA4esMefnI/AAAAAAAAPxo/sOWe8RPDgL4IGdvGH2Ql5WOUNx3q9fNNgCLcBGAs/s320/abc21logo.png" width="290" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div>&nbsp; Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.com7St Werburgh St, Chester CH1 2DY, UK53.1918337 -2.891068499999960327.669799199999996 -44.19966249999996 78.7138682 38.417525500000039tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130999193823092450.post-77470603710040750072017-11-28T20:20:00.000+00:002017-11-28T20:20:33.250+00:00Unknown<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JyKB4bEfGG0/Wh25aAUrIeI/AAAAAAAAPsM/GcsAtuCjAukGnhQHBJvgDS4IILNuuWfsgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="970" data-original-width="1600" height="385" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JyKB4bEfGG0/Wh25aAUrIeI/AAAAAAAAPsM/GcsAtuCjAukGnhQHBJvgDS4IILNuuWfsgCLcBGAs/s640/P1030616.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp;Here is<a href="http://www.sculpture.org.uk/artist/eilis-oconnell" target="_blank"> Ellis O'Connell's</a> "Capsule for destinies unknown" (2017) and a little girl with a balloon is starting her own journey.&nbsp; This object was in the grounds of Chester Cathedral as part of their ARK exhibition and O'Connell made a sculpture for the event that she thought was relevant to the idea of shelter and refuge in these uncertain times.&nbsp; It references the refugee crisis and also the sale of arms to repressive regimes.&nbsp; So it could be a torpedo or escape pod take your pick.&nbsp; The start of the apocalypse or the escape from it.&nbsp; The material is corrugated galvanised steel and polycarbonate sheeting and as she says "humble everyday materials often used to make temporary living spaces".<br /><br />Or perhaps this object has brought visitors from another dimension for nearby <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Agr9MDEwmkE/Wh25atiT-HI/AAAAAAAAPsc/plX7YPHll28KWG9Tbb8i2ZBWIQ_2R6zbACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030611.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Agr9MDEwmkE/Wh25atiT-HI/AAAAAAAAPsc/plX7YPHll28KWG9Tbb8i2ZBWIQ_2R6zbACEwYBhgL/s400/P1030611.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>are two of Lynn Chadwick's steel Beasts. In the foreground, Rising Beast (1989) and Duttan's Beast (1990) named after one of Chadwick's friends.<br /><br />An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet, this week sojourning at the letter U <a href="https://abcwednesday.com/2017/11/28/21-u-by-melody/" target="_blank">here</a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-87yblIQ7CEM/Wh3DFr6Ny6I/AAAAAAAAPso/D8Yr8pA6MuEeoy8HHJT4tLauGhSQKup1QCLcBGAs/s1600/abc21logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-87yblIQ7CEM/Wh3DFr6Ny6I/AAAAAAAAPso/D8Yr8pA6MuEeoy8HHJT4tLauGhSQKup1QCLcBGAs/s320/abc21logo.png" width="290" /></a></div>&nbsp; &nbsp; <br /><br /><br />Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130999193823092450.post-65672397533110435262017-11-08T00:22:00.000+00:002017-11-08T00:24:46.682+00:00Land Rover Rebellion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rPtFGX-g65w/WgJAKoLkmdI/AAAAAAAAPmc/krp_xBw1-YUerLOcSMXxg0vHCYtdol6oQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030288.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1129" data-original-width="1600" height="449" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rPtFGX-g65w/WgJAKoLkmdI/AAAAAAAAPmc/krp_xBw1-YUerLOcSMXxg0vHCYtdol6oQCLcBGAs/s640/P1030288.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Travelling the country lanes of County Wicklow in the second week of our holiday in Ireland we kept spotting groups of old land rovers barreling along in the distance and then we happened on one outside Avondale House, once the home of the Irish politician Charles Stewart Parnell (1846-1891) land reformer and leader of the Home Rule League.&nbsp; The house and its 500 acre forest park, full of tree trails and walks, is justifiably a popular attraction. &nbsp; Why the Land Rover was parked by the house I don't know but from what I can glean a hundred of the Land Rover Series One Club was having an event in the area. These were Land Rovers produced from 1948-53.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DWB9ouBBGzo/WgJD_Fxv_SI/AAAAAAAAPmo/zzKQndhzfMsWbbR-Sss5uyFqvMKxAeSQgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030193.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1033" data-original-width="1600" height="411" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DWB9ouBBGzo/WgJD_Fxv_SI/AAAAAAAAPmo/zzKQndhzfMsWbbR-Sss5uyFqvMKxAeSQgCLcBGAs/s640/P1030193.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Then we came across another one in the town of Arklow.&nbsp; We thought the rather grand renaissance revival building was the town hall but it turned out to be St Mary's and St Peter's Church.&nbsp; The Land Rover is parked by the Michael Murphy Monument, a catholic priest and United Irishmen leader.&nbsp; He was shot and killed here at the Battle of Arklow as he lead an attack on horseback in the 1798 Rebellion (the town of Arklow was British held).&nbsp; One of the banners taken into battle said "Liberty of Death".&nbsp; The rebellion was inspired by the American and French Revolutions.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vp3CILH7MC8/WgJGvbAT9TI/AAAAAAAAPm4/vR-pRZxQF5EVw2tulXXKIJGFVyNTBHb7QCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030331.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vp3CILH7MC8/WgJGvbAT9TI/AAAAAAAAPm4/vR-pRZxQF5EVw2tulXXKIJGFVyNTBHb7QCLcBGAs/s640/P1030331.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Disappointingly no Land Rover here in Aughrim but there is a memorial which was erected for the bi-centennial of the 1798 Rebellion.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lPHIzUtIaZU/WgJGvQxC-6I/AAAAAAAAPnA/wgQ3M3aCnxwu7fMIF0exFeXVtxnjwVjjgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030334%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1134" data-original-width="1600" height="451" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lPHIzUtIaZU/WgJGvQxC-6I/AAAAAAAAPnA/wgQ3M3aCnxwu7fMIF0exFeXVtxnjwVjjgCEwYBhgL/s640/P1030334%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>And the added bonus of the An Post van outside the Aughrim Post Office and general store. My favourite design on the An Post's Renault vans was the flying postman with a parcel but unfortunately<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F5E2q_CAmY0/WgJKXwCT5PI/AAAAAAAAPnI/92LarhOaYkIdg3gcZqCR1O3Z8o2PJb0lACLcBGAs/s1600/P1030188.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F5E2q_CAmY0/WgJKXwCT5PI/AAAAAAAAPnI/92LarhOaYkIdg3gcZqCR1O3Z8o2PJb0lACLcBGAs/s320/P1030188.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>the nearest I came to getting a picture was of this one as it overtook us on the road.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet, this week sojourning at R <a href="https://abcwednesday.com/2017/11/06/21-r-by-melody/" target="_blank">here&nbsp;</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7efDx9YUSPk/WgJMKEQda_I/AAAAAAAAPnU/EQVLYn749V47ZrJcpNezRMB0ul7vHh-kgCLcBGAs/s1600/abc21logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7efDx9YUSPk/WgJMKEQda_I/AAAAAAAAPnU/EQVLYn749V47ZrJcpNezRMB0ul7vHh-kgCLcBGAs/s320/abc21logo.png" width="290" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div>&nbsp; <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>&nbsp; &nbsp; Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130999193823092450.post-4833305917503288162017-10-31T21:37:00.000+00:002017-10-31T21:37:57.318+00:00Bannishead Quarry<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B5IJLZjpXxQ/WfjZd96CDmI/AAAAAAAAPkA/Uf2annJqNJIiRSQVLznTS7_KW7-yKo26gCLcBGAs/s1600/P1020853.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B5IJLZjpXxQ/WfjZd96CDmI/AAAAAAAAPkA/Uf2annJqNJIiRSQVLznTS7_KW7-yKo26gCLcBGAs/s640/P1020853.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>There are many remains of the slate quarries around the Coniston area of the Lake District but in this view&nbsp; nature and industry have colluded to form a watery oasis, with a little help from two schoolboys in the 1950s. This is Bannishead Quarry, sometimes also called Tanearth Quarry, the different names because it lies between the two areas on the fellside.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Uc3pDzG1IuM/WfjZfDD3DvI/AAAAAAAAPkI/QlPe-zcskTQ8kNg2gCRo_X-ypp2kS1n4ACLcBGAs/s1600/P1020868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Uc3pDzG1IuM/WfjZfDD3DvI/AAAAAAAAPkI/QlPe-zcskTQ8kNg2gCRo_X-ypp2kS1n4ACLcBGAs/s400/P1020868.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>The sloping area to the right of the waterfall is where once the slate was hauled up from the quarry below, there was no waterfall then.&nbsp; I hope you can make out the waterfall for the day was drizzly and misty not really the best conditions for my pocket camera. Torver Beck rushes down the mountain to one side of the quarry and those original quarry men took care to block off its natural inclination to run downhill towards this hole in the ground.&nbsp; The mine was abandoned as the slate ran out and the years passed until our two schoolboys roaming the fells decided to remove the stone slab stopping the beck running into the quarry and with much determination eventually their task was achieved, they stood back to admire their handiwork and see the a small trickle turn into a waterfall.&nbsp; The story is told <a href="http://www.torver.org/torver-history/banishead-quarry" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;&nbsp; The quarry filled with water and today it is about 6m (19ft 6ins) deep and although the perimeter is fenced off it still remains a draw for schoolboy adventurers in summer to dive into it.&nbsp; The water remains at a constant level because of the sandstone layer that lies with the slate.<br /><br />I didn't take any photographs of the old slate spoil heaps which the path weaves through <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U80H7pyVmhk/WfjZe3Vb_GI/AAAAAAAAPkE/41GUUv9ToRcOjHEVggI-U99rsZhyJBIwACLcBGAs/s1600/P1020869.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1133" data-original-width="1600" height="282" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U80H7pyVmhk/WfjZe3Vb_GI/AAAAAAAAPkE/41GUUv9ToRcOjHEVggI-U99rsZhyJBIwACLcBGAs/s400/P1020869.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>but here it is one in miniature, the cairn marking the pathways at the bottom.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet, this week sojourning at Q <a href="https://abcwednesday.com/2017/10/30/q-is-for-questions/" target="_blank">here&nbsp;</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Su_EPtQhx0/WfjqcfClzJI/AAAAAAAAPkY/dO-ua6Ls39Ab1i9jGIbPpo7FIN9sm01RwCLcBGAs/s1600/abc21logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Su_EPtQhx0/WfjqcfClzJI/AAAAAAAAPkY/dO-ua6Ls39Ab1i9jGIbPpo7FIN9sm01RwCLcBGAs/s320/abc21logo.png" width="290" /></a></div>&nbsp; &nbsp; Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.com6Torver, Coniston LA21 8BA, UK54.33823 -3.102765999999974228.816195500000003 -44.411359999999974 79.8602645 38.205828000000025tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130999193823092450.post-22717668520067224212017-10-17T18:28:00.000+01:002017-10-17T18:28:03.767+01:00Old Barn<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oPhzSEaW63g/WeYYnEdd29I/AAAAAAAAPfg/H0q8BDPU1foPEa9v8pNO-oC6HjzqRQr9ACLcBGAs/s1600/P1020926.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oPhzSEaW63g/WeYYnEdd29I/AAAAAAAAPfg/H0q8BDPU1foPEa9v8pNO-oC6HjzqRQr9ACLcBGAs/s400/P1020926.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>I pass this old barn regularly, it lies a field, banking and stream&nbsp; away from the main road and as the sun sets the light accentuates the red brickwork and the building take on another character with a glowing abstract pattern.&nbsp; This effect could only be captured from the road which is busy with traffic and no parking - I have never plotted out my camera approach.&nbsp; It is too late now.&nbsp; The high winds of Ex hurricane Ophelia which recently made landfall from the Atlantic has done for it. As I drove past today the front<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O8QOhIp061g/WeYYoGU4QzI/AAAAAAAAPfo/hZYDnD8lUjIZXcwwcQgsfkg3kOs0yhKjgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1020924.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O8QOhIp061g/WeYYoGU4QzI/AAAAAAAAPfo/hZYDnD8lUjIZXcwwcQgsfkg3kOs0yhKjgCLcBGAs/s400/P1020924.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>and side walls have collapsed and the roof is lying inside.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bYQIoPuO41A/WeYYnwou26I/AAAAAAAAPfk/dRz4f8xmfzcLXolGiSlCD1CyoM0CgxSbwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1020925.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bYQIoPuO41A/WeYYnwou26I/AAAAAAAAPfk/dRz4f8xmfzcLXolGiSlCD1CyoM0CgxSbwCEwYBhgL/s400/P1020925.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>It looks as though the more sturdy slate at the back is still in place which may be why the majority of the Lake District barns are made from this local material and<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UjCH-YQ0jQE/WeYhBP8zj-I/AAAAAAAAPf4/Uqc2B6fVj4Mh6JRG_2KZJA1hcpoZf0Z4gCLcBGAs/s1600/P1020883.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UjCH-YQ0jQE/WeYhBP8zj-I/AAAAAAAAPf4/Uqc2B6fVj4Mh6JRG_2KZJA1hcpoZf0Z4gCLcBGAs/s400/P1020883.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>have stood the test of time. This old cruck barn in the Lickle Valley lies beneath the wonderfully named Hovel Knott and has been here for hundreds of years and is still in use.&nbsp; <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bvJVKKBllC0/WeYkQkY9Y-I/AAAAAAAAPgM/-88BzbW_v1sOijROzF2eQ59ok_WWcj3vgCLcBGAs/s1600/Cruck-Barn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bvJVKKBllC0/WeYkQkY9Y-I/AAAAAAAAPgM/-88BzbW_v1sOijROzF2eQ59ok_WWcj3vgCLcBGAs/s320/Cruck-Barn.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Here is the interior curved cruck or crook frame supporting the roof with contrasting modern plastic containers. The old and new.&nbsp; <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet, this week sojourning at O <a href="https://abcwednesday.com/2017/10/16/21o-by-daphne/" target="_blank">here</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cc2zAIXea_o/WeYnXdKpjyI/AAAAAAAAPgY/nPmjc4cd3JI0vX2VpxQxooQ-pjxglHykACLcBGAs/s1600/abc21logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cc2zAIXea_o/WeYnXdKpjyI/AAAAAAAAPgY/nPmjc4cd3JI0vX2VpxQxooQ-pjxglHykACLcBGAs/s320/abc21logo.png" width="290" /></a></div><br />&nbsp; &nbsp; Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130999193823092450.post-10234983063056405912017-10-03T22:01:00.000+01:002017-10-03T22:06:00.286+01:00Meeting of the Waters<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DwkJYTdjOTA/WdPiLL6-ajI/AAAAAAAAPZk/9UaoBjCEcbEtTqQz1AMq_B53dmZ9rWHMACLcBGAs/s1600/P1030044%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DwkJYTdjOTA/WdPiLL6-ajI/AAAAAAAAPZk/9UaoBjCEcbEtTqQz1AMq_B53dmZ9rWHMACLcBGAs/s400/P1030044%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>One of the places loved in Ireland is here at the Meeting of the Waters&nbsp; where the Avonmore and Beag Rivers come together and become the Avoca River.&nbsp; The day was boiling hot and people were picnicking and relaxing by the cooling waters but two families<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q65_uB0JLHM/WdPkPbKSjjI/AAAAAAAAPZw/MXvgiMf0F-MkE795NYccUj1p4V1wbZCOQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q65_uB0JLHM/WdPkPbKSjjI/AAAAAAAAPZw/MXvgiMf0F-MkE795NYccUj1p4V1wbZCOQCLcBGAs/s400/P1030048.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>decided to set out on a mini-adventure.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pGc6ttJkX-c/WdPkQJivIoI/AAAAAAAAPZ4/ASuRIHc3w1wAeLiY9xp9sHFtm81DkVkpgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pGc6ttJkX-c/WdPkQJivIoI/AAAAAAAAPZ4/ASuRIHc3w1wAeLiY9xp9sHFtm81DkVkpgCEwYBhgL/s400/P1030049.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>&nbsp;and cross to the other side.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oeSBebWn7bg/WdPkP2BrvfI/AAAAAAAAPZ0/6hWyRMZJn9U_o9kBJz2VK22Y6c3uBJD_QCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oeSBebWn7bg/WdPkP2BrvfI/AAAAAAAAPZ0/6hWyRMZJn9U_o9kBJz2VK22Y6c3uBJD_QCEwYBhgL/s400/P1030050.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>I don't know why they took their trainer off and opted to go barefooted over the rocky bottom, ouch, but some managed better than others in navigating both the discomfort and currents<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PtSCq_i4L7A/WdPkQo43GQI/AAAAAAAAPaE/hhwE7iQ8KcwoVAUzytm65_kOjCi9izAMACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PtSCq_i4L7A/WdPkQo43GQI/AAAAAAAAPaE/hhwE7iQ8KcwoVAUzytm65_kOjCi9izAMACEwYBhgL/s400/P1030052.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>and reached the other side, of course they then had to gingerly return the same way.<br /><br />The fame of the Meeting of the Waters is because of a poem of friendship and love written by Thomas Moore in the summer of 1807, later put to music. Moore would find the place very different today then when he was inspired by a place of tranquility <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0_S1xmDsp30/WdPs5fNk7vI/AAAAAAAAPaQ/kicdHvs0FnQZJ-XjlB1Rxyo6u5gU_kDhQCLcBGAs/s1600/4427394818_110cacfc07_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="761" data-original-width="1024" height="296" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0_S1xmDsp30/WdPs5fNk7vI/AAAAAAAAPaQ/kicdHvs0FnQZJ-XjlB1Rxyo6u5gU_kDhQCLcBGAs/s400/4427394818_110cacfc07_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meeting of the Waters, Vale of Avoca, postcard from the<a href="https://flic.kr/p/7Keyeq" target="_blank"> Library of Congress</a></td></tr></tbody></table>but this old postcard from the 1890s might give a flavour.&nbsp; It quotes the beginning of the poem/song:<br /><blockquote class="tr_bq"><blockquote class="tr_bq"><blockquote class="tr_bq"><i>There is not in this wide world and valley so sweet</i><br /><i>As that vale in whose bosom the bright waters meet!</i><br /><i>Oh the last days of feeling and life must depart</i><br /><i>Ere the bloom of that valley shall fade from my heart. </i></blockquote></blockquote></blockquote>I must admit the only Moore poem and song I was familiar with was The Last Rose of Summer but this confluence of the waters with their memorial to Thomas Moore introduced me to another one -<br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kcIAoA-t8io" width="560"></iframe> Here sung by <span style="font-size: x-small;">ANÚNA</span>, Ireland's National Choir and arranged by the soloist Michael McGlynn accompanied by the RTE National Symphony orchestra and Finnish violinist Linda Lampenius&nbsp; <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet, this week sojourning at M <a href="https://abcwednesday.com/2017/10/02/21-m-by-arnoldo/" target="_blank">here&nbsp;</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ScQBGJJ5wC0/WdP37nzY_AI/AAAAAAAAPag/vUc3whFS7VY1iAZ_o4Dm6YiQzXDvkigbQCEwYBhgL/s1600/abc21logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ScQBGJJ5wC0/WdP37nzY_AI/AAAAAAAAPag/vUc3whFS7VY1iAZ_o4Dm6YiQzXDvkigbQCEwYBhgL/s320/abc21logo.png" width="290" /></a></div><br />Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.com9Vale of Avoca, Arklow, Co. Wicklow, Ireland52.8321974 -6.235025400000040527.310162899999998 -47.54361940000004 78.3542319 35.073568599999959tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130999193823092450.post-18040573786970412942017-09-26T21:38:00.000+01:002017-09-26T21:38:12.711+01:00Irish Lighthouses<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DWfeInUaQz4/WcqrO5rPxGI/AAAAAAAAPWc/OWWiyExtw38BemZkiKkCvZMzT4EC311sACLcBGAs/s1600/P1030007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="980" data-original-width="1600" height="392" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DWfeInUaQz4/WcqrO5rPxGI/AAAAAAAAPWc/OWWiyExtw38BemZkiKkCvZMzT4EC311sACLcBGAs/s640/P1030007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The Poolbeg Lighthouse, one of a trio of lighthouses leading into Dublin Harbour, is painted red to indicate starboard. &nbsp; The lighthouse perches on the end of the 4K long Great South Wall and if one wanted to watch the ships go by from this vantage point I am told it is a 40 minute walk.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jTGs2ILDqLI/WcqrOjze16I/AAAAAAAAPWk/ND6gxsKdYtsiudXhJRY7pcgM1iyXBusPwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jTGs2ILDqLI/WcqrOjze16I/AAAAAAAAPWk/ND6gxsKdYtsiudXhJRY7pcgM1iyXBusPwCEwYBhgL/s400/P1030008.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>As you may be able to see there are few people having made the walk enjoying a beautiful day and taking in the view.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S_AusdVKg-0/Wcqt0ZNUx9I/AAAAAAAAPWs/amLrF73aEAY5rwH_h9KywJoDRn9SrylMgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S_AusdVKg-0/Wcqt0ZNUx9I/AAAAAAAAPWs/amLrF73aEAY5rwH_h9KywJoDRn9SrylMgCLcBGAs/s400/P1030071.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Travelling south Wicklow Lighthouse's portrait is one of a variety of scenes that brighten up the side of&nbsp; a warehouse on the harbour's North Quay. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9GW31qNpMmY/Wcqt1TtsM7I/AAAAAAAAPW8/CyVKOa11WHcCA0XtuSTsf5gXnTZLnNkLgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="975" data-original-width="1600" height="387" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9GW31qNpMmY/Wcqt1TtsM7I/AAAAAAAAPW8/CyVKOa11WHcCA0XtuSTsf5gXnTZLnNkLgCEwYBhgL/s640/P1030111.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Here is the real thing, built in 1884, it sits at the entrance to Wicklow Harbour on the East Pier. The cargo ship (GEC Cosmo) despite appearances it actually reversing out of the harbour after unloading timber.&nbsp; People who can reverse well always impress me so I enjoyed a sit in the sunshine and watched as it smoothly left the harbour and then turned in the open sea and went on its way. While I was up on the sea wall I discovered the lighthouse had an intriguing secret when I walked around the back<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gfPTo_JYFY0/Wcqt1L0LvNI/AAAAAAAAPW8/P09w1oSK8A8HXRsviwHxpi2bV3i1W5C9wCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gfPTo_JYFY0/Wcqt1L0LvNI/AAAAAAAAPW8/P09w1oSK8A8HXRsviwHxpi2bV3i1W5C9wCEwYBhgL/s320/P1030088.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The romantic "Will you Marry Me?" M.&nbsp; Wouldn't we all like to know the story behind this.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet, this week sojourning at L <a href="https://abcwednesday.com/2017/09/26/abc-wednesday-l/" target="_blank">here</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bu6Sqas3OEI/Wcq4Lzk4J4I/AAAAAAAAPXI/HatxKSG1qYAgoALmxlptH6ObZfOzwwnWQCLcBGAs/s1600/abc21logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bu6Sqas3OEI/Wcq4Lzk4J4I/AAAAAAAAPXI/HatxKSG1qYAgoALmxlptH6ObZfOzwwnWQCLcBGAs/s320/abc21logo.png" width="290" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp; </div>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130999193823092450.post-40703704120422831592017-09-19T22:43:00.000+01:002017-09-19T22:43:58.117+01:00Knowth<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fVJNtmpBjfU/WcF464jmRwI/AAAAAAAAPTo/BaGNdLeYdYkz8HvK7alC65TjUNR6RbDSQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030337.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1094" data-original-width="1600" height="272" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fVJNtmpBjfU/WcF464jmRwI/AAAAAAAAPTo/BaGNdLeYdYkz8HvK7alC65TjUNR6RbDSQCLcBGAs/s400/P1030337.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Once again for this week's ABC Wednesday I am showing a part of Ireland I visited and in particular the megalithic tombs of Knowth in County Meath which were constructed about 5000 years ago. This view is of&nbsp; "The Great Mound" and two of the smaller mounds of which there are about 18 around the site.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YICrTN6djPA/WcF47kh2lJI/AAAAAAAAPUM/hP0pZvu7t-M_2LRO4u2St__y5XD1SEPQgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030340%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1117" data-original-width="1600" height="278" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YICrTN6djPA/WcF47kh2lJI/AAAAAAAAPUM/hP0pZvu7t-M_2LRO4u2St__y5XD1SEPQgCEwYBhgL/s400/P1030340%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>This was our guide to the passage tombs both informative, knowledgeable and wonderfully lyrical she painted a picture of the past.&nbsp; The large stones you can see are all around the outside and most have designs on them<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jslbHZc_HG8/WcF8xcaaSMI/AAAAAAAAPUU/OXkv2FRdWQQPLrgMs9-Rquj3oxGprV4KwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030341%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jslbHZc_HG8/WcF8xcaaSMI/AAAAAAAAPUU/OXkv2FRdWQQPLrgMs9-Rquj3oxGprV4KwCLcBGAs/s400/P1030341%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Of the total number of examples of megalithic art in Western Europe the 200 decorated stones here make up a third. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VwrOegqOBBU/WcF47riB1yI/AAAAAAAAPUM/5sdwgzVD9VoWOIPixTnexnSphIJYuIhhQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030339.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VwrOegqOBBU/WcF47riB1yI/AAAAAAAAPUM/5sdwgzVD9VoWOIPixTnexnSphIJYuIhhQCEwYBhgL/s400/P1030339.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>This is the entrance stone to the passages of which there is both a western and eastern one.&nbsp; The Great Mound has lived an interesting life, being built in the Neolithic period and used as passage tomb then evenually abandoned although bronze and iron age settlements proliferated in the valley, eventually used as a hill fort in the 9th century and then later as a monastic grange. The original&nbsp; passage alignment to the times of the year has been compromised <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NUeCuKNjkZE/WcF48WZ6f_I/AAAAAAAAPUM/IBfqgw8OoCof3_DFT-EjeG4aPzkAs4GNgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NUeCuKNjkZE/WcF48WZ6f_I/AAAAAAAAPUM/IBfqgw8OoCof3_DFT-EjeG4aPzkAs4GNgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1030344.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>because in the medieval period soutrains (storage chambers for food) were built into the mound, for a few possible reasons, for use if the hill fort was under siege or to hide food from the Viking raiders or as a larder because the conditions in the tomb were cool and dry.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bLN7ImErKyU/WcF49Zepg9I/AAAAAAAAPUM/X904IGtvYXoyjsKvhyeNzf_NCN1QuXQ_wCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bLN7ImErKyU/WcF49Zepg9I/AAAAAAAAPUM/X904IGtvYXoyjsKvhyeNzf_NCN1QuXQ_wCEwYBhgL/s400/P1030362.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>The white quartz stones that are spread around the tomb and gleamed in the sunlight came from the Wicklow Mountains 60 kilometers south of here. The dark granite cobbles came from the Mountains of Mourne 60k to the north, just one indications of the amount of organisation, knowledge and effort that went into the making of the tombs.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dIBF4FEqJCk/WcF481spjqI/AAAAAAAAPUM/PYyaMFU9J_IkbnpUzV8VKWMSQ_qn4KsjQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030353.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dIBF4FEqJCk/WcF481spjqI/AAAAAAAAPUM/PYyaMFU9J_IkbnpUzV8VKWMSQ_qn4KsjQCEwYBhgL/s400/P1030353.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Here we are among the wild flowers on top of The Great Mound and taking in the views of the Boyne valley from which this area of megalithic wonders takes its name, Brú na Bóinne which means Palace of the Boyne and the area is designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.&nbsp; Sometimes the area is called the Bend of the Boyne after the river which winds its way through the valley making a dramatic loop or bend at this point.&nbsp; Wondering how they keep the the sides of the mounds so nicely smooth?<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cic5sumpvXQ/WcF49Uv8fKI/AAAAAAAAPUM/m35Z6dCSORMSu1qsV47-AmGz3hcs0zJIwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030363%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cic5sumpvXQ/WcF49Uv8fKI/AAAAAAAAPUM/m35Z6dCSORMSu1qsV47-AmGz3hcs0zJIwCEwYBhgL/s400/P1030363%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>See the man on the top<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hQs6_vmJgxU/WcGExTcer1I/AAAAAAAAPUk/Yp7Nntcuq_kgjT7YNLbdRuulsfk80mGDACLcBGAs/s1600/P1030356.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="1600" height="287" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hQs6_vmJgxU/WcGExTcer1I/AAAAAAAAPUk/Yp7Nntcuq_kgjT7YNLbdRuulsfk80mGDACLcBGAs/s400/P1030356.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>he was busily mowing one of the satellite mounds while we were there.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kvx43o0fexk/WcGFWmxkAbI/AAAAAAAAPUs/zG1X4dYs30gxGLpPvHEKp5u25ih9At5AwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030348.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1038" data-original-width="1600" height="258" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kvx43o0fexk/WcGFWmxkAbI/AAAAAAAAPUs/zG1X4dYs30gxGLpPvHEKp5u25ih9At5AwCLcBGAs/s400/P1030348.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>There are also standing stones and other structures outside the tombs and<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EiaZxgYcLYo/WcF47yuYhQI/AAAAAAAAPUM/0i5O9qWLJiA3iAMJG-URaTxBPBHmBKQxACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1298" data-original-width="1600" height="323" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EiaZxgYcLYo/WcF47yuYhQI/AAAAAAAAPUM/0i5O9qWLJiA3iAMJG-URaTxBPBHmBKQxACEwYBhgL/s400/P1030343.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>a reconstruction of a Timber Circle which was originally built about 2,500BC on the eastern side of the site.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">A virtual tour and an aerial view of Knowth can be seen <a href="http://www.knowth.com/knowthtour.htm" target="_blank">here</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet, sojourning at the letter K <a href="https://abcwednesday.com/2017/09/18/21-k-by-roger/" target="_blank">here</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OL_9dl9myNM/WcGMJRTtpSI/AAAAAAAAPVA/sZHNnEiYK-wF4M-j8M8XHY7LjibH2V_LACLcBGAs/s1600/abc21logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OL_9dl9myNM/WcGMJRTtpSI/AAAAAAAAPVA/sZHNnEiYK-wF4M-j8M8XHY7LjibH2V_LACLcBGAs/s320/abc21logo.png" width="290" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div>&nbsp; <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.com8Knowth, Donore, Co. Meath, Ireland53.701198299999987 -6.491428100000007428.179163799999987 -47.800022100000007 79.223232799999991 34.817165899999992tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130999193823092450.post-35919128727448765162017-09-12T19:34:00.000+01:002017-09-12T19:34:17.714+01:00Japanese Garden<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9y9TQubrO4Y/WbgEMtMLZtI/AAAAAAAAPP8/AKhnFZ7RZ6kh7RG5aG3Yc0jfZvhEyjj3QCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030435%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9y9TQubrO4Y/WbgEMtMLZtI/AAAAAAAAPP8/AKhnFZ7RZ6kh7RG5aG3Yc0jfZvhEyjj3QCLcBGAs/s400/P1030435%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>The Powerscourt Estate is one of Ireland's big tourist attractions being only 20 kilometers south of Dublin and its 47 acres and 300 years of garden design, which include Italian, Japanese and walled gardens, are one of things that attract the visitor.&nbsp; Here I have arrived on the path that overlooks The Grotto a secluded space of mosses, ferns and falling water<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--LNYj1jaQeA/WbgGlPx5tpI/AAAAAAAAPQI/tH6H_0DxxRER975NtbEFpGBKKxVSLwbtgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030445%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--LNYj1jaQeA/WbgGlPx5tpI/AAAAAAAAPQI/tH6H_0DxxRER975NtbEFpGBKKxVSLwbtgCLcBGAs/s400/P1030445%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>which was created in 1740 and whose atmosphere flawlessly leads one into the Japanese Garden<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tmmokd-UAi4/WbgHIkYkNVI/AAAAAAAAPQM/VwpY9bXEzusVKp2whWRZx50T-VCq_sjswCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030436.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tmmokd-UAi4/WbgHIkYkNVI/AAAAAAAAPQM/VwpY9bXEzusVKp2whWRZx50T-VCq_sjswCLcBGAs/s400/P1030436.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>with its twisting paths, running water and ponds.&nbsp; The day was overcast and and a very cool for June but the <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cFIiMV-_ZoM/WbgIN6BvUuI/AAAAAAAAPQY/3mCFPwcY8KAX04AK8N0lmX8NwLYzvSelQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030449%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cFIiMV-_ZoM/WbgIN6BvUuI/AAAAAAAAPQY/3mCFPwcY8KAX04AK8N0lmX8NwLYzvSelQCLcBGAs/s400/P1030449%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>lovely candelabra primulas brightened the scene<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Tale-1vG8H0/WbgJnikiqZI/AAAAAAAAPQk/nm2aMuUCqeEyEE3FlvEVRN8JH6OkpwF_gCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030438%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Tale-1vG8H0/WbgJnikiqZI/AAAAAAAAPQk/nm2aMuUCqeEyEE3FlvEVRN8JH6OkpwF_gCLcBGAs/s400/P1030438%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>as well as this woman in a yellow dress who seemed to fit in perfectly with the oriental theme, what a pity she was continually in motion while I was trying to trying to focus in from a distance.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HLk0V0Nk7w4/WbgKQpwMIAI/AAAAAAAAPQs/1gEffp2PemUlumhFnlWApK-EajVOfanUwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030454%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HLk0V0Nk7w4/WbgKQpwMIAI/AAAAAAAAPQs/1gEffp2PemUlumhFnlWApK-EajVOfanUwCLcBGAs/s400/P1030454%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>I then went on to amble over bridges, admire the water lilies<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DjtGwhEQdKY/WbgLiEzZdTI/AAAAAAAAPQ8/mCkKN8YJpfMDiWwoSJkZh7q3CLXy8DnbgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030455.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DjtGwhEQdKY/WbgLiEzZdTI/AAAAAAAAPQ8/mCkKN8YJpfMDiWwoSJkZh7q3CLXy8DnbgCLcBGAs/s400/P1030455.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>palm trees, little shelters and lantern stands<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yDfG5VMEM6U/WbgMgpogYwI/AAAAAAAAPRM/W675hD8DyKMntPmEYKpI4I9IGNswUQJxgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030457.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yDfG5VMEM6U/WbgMgpogYwI/AAAAAAAAPRM/W675hD8DyKMntPmEYKpI4I9IGNswUQJxgCLcBGAs/s400/P1030457.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>No Japanese garden would be complete without a willow tree.&nbsp; This Irish take on a Japanese Garden was created in 1908 and was one of the most popular parts of the Powerscourt Gardens the day I visited. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z16SamK4nSo/WbgPJvUisAI/AAAAAAAAPRs/aUps6b9Jj1MIfwWF4qJwv329dxUSGQa2wCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030451.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z16SamK4nSo/WbgPJvUisAI/AAAAAAAAPRs/aUps6b9Jj1MIfwWF4qJwv329dxUSGQa2wCLcBGAs/s400/P1030451.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UGXSl9cmOSo/Wbgk0zsO7iI/AAAAAAAAPR8/NNxmJacHHFAKzt1ig6TVOnwTgNoaRTiNQCLcBGAs/s1600/abc21logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UGXSl9cmOSo/Wbgk0zsO7iI/AAAAAAAAPR8/NNxmJacHHFAKzt1ig6TVOnwTgNoaRTiNQCLcBGAs/s320/abc21logo.png" width="290" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet, this week sojourning at J <a href="https://abcwednesday.com/2017/09/12/21-j-by-arnoldo/" target="_blank">here</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />&nbsp; Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.com6Powerscourt House &amp; Gardens, Powerscourt Demesne, Enniskerry, Co. Wicklow, Ireland53.184251 -6.186632700000018327.662216500000003 -47.495226700000018 78.7062855 35.121961299999981tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130999193823092450.post-56880817101295662122017-08-22T23:05:00.001+01:002017-08-22T23:07:23.232+01:00Glendalough<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qpcTX6qsPJ8/WZyMLT9x4_I/AAAAAAAAPKM/iQghZFe0mmcANoJq7vVH-Q-3Y0GC2bkFQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030147.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qpcTX6qsPJ8/WZyMLT9x4_I/AAAAAAAAPKM/iQghZFe0mmcANoJq7vVH-Q-3Y0GC2bkFQCEwYBhgL/s400/P1030147.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The Gleneolo River flows softly in Glendalough, a valley famous for its monastic city</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xhki1f4a9wg/WZyL-AV292I/AAAAAAAAPKM/bO6eE8X7NYIZzozlXzk7q3YtcDgmDziOACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="950" data-original-width="1600" height="237" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xhki1f4a9wg/WZyL-AV292I/AAAAAAAAPKM/bO6eE8X7NYIZzozlXzk7q3YtcDgmDziOACEwYBhgL/s400/P1030149.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">which grew up in the 11th Century, its buildings and 30m tower a popular film location today. But we are heading from here up past waterfalls and through a wood to gain the high ground</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WohMh7Bk3ds/WZyL11U5VCI/AAAAAAAAPKM/OsO7GAk1X-IW0x8iTWYzz7OvUAPU0R24QCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="1600" height="459" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WohMh7Bk3ds/WZyL11U5VCI/AAAAAAAAPKM/OsO7GAk1X-IW0x8iTWYzz7OvUAPU0R24QCEwYBhgL/s640/P1030160.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">from where can be seen the two lakes that give the valley its name, Glendalough, or the 'glen of the two lakes'.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rV8VgUx3C84/WZyMXU70PMI/AAAAAAAAPKM/oP2oDOZRLPQSmI66kk2F_o9_jNFO9WTSgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rV8VgUx3C84/WZyMXU70PMI/AAAAAAAAPKM/oP2oDOZRLPQSmI66kk2F_o9_jNFO9WTSgCEwYBhgL/s400/P1030162.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Walking further up and along the ridge on the boardwalk which in this area of high rainfall helps one over the mire although as we were here in June, and in the middle of a heatwave, the ground was dry(ish).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6MI6ZKZMaVI/WZyNrhAq3TI/AAAAAAAAPKU/iiQsjKJvZp4C36B5ygn4xjWvz8t_hNLpACLcBGAs/s1600/P1030169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6MI6ZKZMaVI/WZyNrhAq3TI/AAAAAAAAPKU/iiQsjKJvZp4C36B5ygn4xjWvz8t_hNLpACLcBGAs/s640/P1030169.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Eventually reaching the head of the valley and crossing the stream that will become the Glenealo River which will flow down the valley to keep the lakes full but only the higher lake can be seen at this point, the lower lake hidden in the bend of the valley.&nbsp;&nbsp; As we come down to the valley floor we come to the remains of an old mining village</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5eyxHqcvO4M/WZydpVWVBpI/AAAAAAAAPKs/eAHYb0DChcoQsYbZiCCzDANmdf5VlaBvQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030184%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5eyxHqcvO4M/WZydpVWVBpI/AAAAAAAAPKs/eAHYb0DChcoQsYbZiCCzDANmdf5VlaBvQCLcBGAs/s400/P1030184%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">which grew up in the 1800s when lead, zinc and silver were discovered here and thousands of miners worked in this remote location which they called Van Diemen's Land (after the distant colony in Australia) because it seemed so far from civilization.&nbsp; Today </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P5Mkl9nIa1Q/WZyguUG5jPI/AAAAAAAAPK4/Ki3YSV6A4ooD1IEJsmf-AQWhmn-KyQPSQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030186%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P5Mkl9nIa1Q/WZyguUG5jPI/AAAAAAAAPK4/Ki3YSV6A4ooD1IEJsmf-AQWhmn-KyQPSQCLcBGAs/s400/P1030186%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">the area and its lakes is a popular leisure destination. This is the lower lake with its little beaches.</div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet, this week sojourning at G <a href="https://abcwednesday.com/2017/08/22/g-is-for-green-general-information/" target="_blank">here</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ayDLzwZW4aE/WZylr-QCczI/AAAAAAAAPLI/QHvgUPvmFkItkz8eJI8A7AdTTXL7-aLTgCLcBGAs/s1600/abc21logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ayDLzwZW4aE/WZylr-QCczI/AAAAAAAAPLI/QHvgUPvmFkItkz8eJI8A7AdTTXL7-aLTgCLcBGAs/s320/abc21logo.png" width="290" /></a></div>&nbsp; <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130999193823092450.post-32012536472035493692017-08-15T23:26:00.000+01:002017-08-15T23:26:12.679+01:00Fishing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MYTKdjlHZrI/WZNqeg3gg7I/AAAAAAAAPGE/uYgyX3tXEGE6a7S6AemiCnZcYyNDF4MjACLcBGAs/s1600/P1030130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MYTKdjlHZrI/WZNqeg3gg7I/AAAAAAAAPGE/uYgyX3tXEGE6a7S6AemiCnZcYyNDF4MjACLcBGAs/s640/P1030130.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>I'm continuing my nautical theme from last week but this time watching the fishing boats come home. Here the Fran Leon III is entering Wicklow Harbour on the south east coast of Ireland, the last of the fleet to come into port. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jyqzq4CMOvg/WZNu3JaSbCI/AAAAAAAAPGc/ar7TPDRCscYuEFYL_F_X91dorJPgUEWygCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1236" data-original-width="1600" height="308" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jyqzq4CMOvg/WZNu3JaSbCI/AAAAAAAAPGc/ar7TPDRCscYuEFYL_F_X91dorJPgUEWygCLcBGAs/s400/P1030132.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;The day was hot and hazy with the sea like glass, the only ripple on the water was from the ship's wake.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ANyIOmQ6TnM/WZNqeDvBXfI/AAAAAAAAPGI/Qf3pZaiHvMcpJ9RDKQL0aK2Li69l3HjNACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030141%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1243" data-original-width="1600" height="310" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ANyIOmQ6TnM/WZNqeDvBXfI/AAAAAAAAPGI/Qf3pZaiHvMcpJ9RDKQL0aK2Li69l3HjNACEwYBhgL/s400/P1030141%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The other fishing boats had already tied up</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7Q-Ngfzy34M/WZNqd33zjyI/AAAAAAAAPGI/yv1hVJ82mjopXvyEFa0qazmNw1SyomWjQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030140%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="972" data-original-width="1600" height="242" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7Q-Ngfzy34M/WZNqd33zjyI/AAAAAAAAPGI/yv1hVJ82mjopXvyEFa0qazmNw1SyomWjQCEwYBhgL/s400/P1030140%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">and the catch had been sealed and stacked ready to be taken away.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yyu_-ScEqzw/WZNzbHBWTvI/AAAAAAAAPHA/4_nVA6y3jk0PjUIppAD4pdV4sbrqTG4jQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030066%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="566" data-original-width="1600" height="141" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yyu_-ScEqzw/WZNzbHBWTvI/AAAAAAAAPHA/4_nVA6y3jk0PjUIppAD4pdV4sbrqTG4jQCLcBGAs/s400/P1030066%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet, this week anchored at F <a href="https://abcwednesday.com/2017/08/14/21-f/" target="_blank">here</a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3tAj43_OKc4/WZNyEy6gmgI/AAAAAAAAPG0/WVCNQ_QUBb8pA0E3rGt7jM4tECMQlvwvACLcBGAs/s1600/abc21logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3tAj43_OKc4/WZNyEy6gmgI/AAAAAAAAPG0/WVCNQ_QUBb8pA0E3rGt7jM4tECMQlvwvACLcBGAs/s320/abc21logo.png" width="290" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><br />Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.com5Wicklow Port, North Quay, Wicklow Town, Wicklow, A67 ED91, Ireland52.980770199999988 -6.036362800000006252.368583699999988 -7.3272563000000064 53.592956699999988 -4.7454693000000061tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130999193823092450.post-8484607686911766322017-08-08T18:54:00.000+01:002017-08-08T18:54:51.680+01:00Elbfeeder<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1PHSbV3VeSs/WYnn9QvrWEI/AAAAAAAAPEQ/ocYFvVmHPP4CUsPGFwsjErZWHcOZgCGnQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1PHSbV3VeSs/WYnn9QvrWEI/AAAAAAAAPEQ/ocYFvVmHPP4CUsPGFwsjErZWHcOZgCGnQCLcBGAs/s640/P1030019.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>I always love sailing into ports and harbours. The romance of arriving into a small island harbour or the bustle of a large port both have their charms for me.&nbsp; Here I am camera clicking away on the Stena Adventurer ferry deck as we sailed into Dublin port in June. Container ship loading was in full swing as the ferry slowly entered the dock system.&nbsp; This is the Elbfeeder, one of three ships, bought a couple of year's ago by the Irish Continental Group from the German shipping company Elbdeich Reederei.&nbsp; Unfortunately I didn't get a photograph of the crane swinging a container into place<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hXt_gBNwSqs/WYnn8_Qnr9I/AAAAAAAAPEM/iBTi5fZb6PU24fI6IjRTKcMpeUbJLdIVACLcBGAs/s1600/P1030020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hXt_gBNwSqs/WYnn8_Qnr9I/AAAAAAAAPEM/iBTi5fZb6PU24fI6IjRTKcMpeUbJLdIVACLcBGAs/s640/P1030020.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>but just managed to capture this stevedore directing operations from the deck before he disappeared from view.&nbsp; I wonder what are in all those containers and where their journey will eventually end?&nbsp; The Elbfeeder can carry 974 containers and it and its sister ships, Elbcarrier and Elbtrader ply their trade between the ports of Dublin, Cork, Belfast, Rotterdam and Antwerp.&nbsp; Here is a 51 second time lapse You Tube video of the ship leaving port -&nbsp; 'Farewell to Antwerp' complete with rowing boats sculling past at high speed.&nbsp; <br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KisCNEKly8g" width="560"></iframe> <br /><div style="text-align: center;">An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet, this week docked at E <a href="https://abcwednesday.com/2017/08/07/21-e/" target="_blank">here</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wIYQsIGOUKc/WYn0ck2FKRI/AAAAAAAAPEg/snVNwhzI9McXlBmC-CktFXVavV4eFNCegCLcBGAs/s1600/abc21logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wIYQsIGOUKc/WYn0ck2FKRI/AAAAAAAAPEg/snVNwhzI9McXlBmC-CktFXVavV4eFNCegCLcBGAs/s320/abc21logo.png" width="290" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp; </div>&nbsp; &nbsp; Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.com6County Dublin, North Dock, Dublin, Ireland53.3494386 -6.202173600000037427.8274041 -47.510767600000037 78.8714731 35.106420399999962tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130999193823092450.post-285066423946934152017-08-01T22:16:00.000+01:002017-08-01T22:16:58.989+01:00Hall Dunnerdale<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HXRTkIXa4o4/WYDetwwum8I/AAAAAAAAPBs/Di3edx9Snqg1LmQRFNy6NUb2gu33j6DngCLcBGAs/s1600/P1010739.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HXRTkIXa4o4/WYDetwwum8I/AAAAAAAAPBs/Di3edx9Snqg1LmQRFNy6NUb2gu33j6DngCLcBGAs/s640/P1010739.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>I parked by what must be the only patch of municipal land in Hall Dunnerdale because all the electric and telephone communications boxes have been set up here at the crossroads.&nbsp; The phone box has no door and has done so for many years so one could say it is easy access, essential when the mobile signal around here is zilch. I wondered what the stone with the round&nbsp; metal ring is for and why it is resting on a palet?&nbsp; It will remain a mystery. With shortage of space the post office has been creative with the post box location because it is in the middle of Hall Dunnerdale Bridge in the background.&nbsp;<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-79sUEuROTQM/WYDetqp8MvI/AAAAAAAAPBo/hFYMc-k93CcaC4c4Z2IXfjrXUTY7unq8gCLcBGAs/s1600/P1010732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="942" data-original-width="1600" height="376" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-79sUEuROTQM/WYDetqp8MvI/AAAAAAAAPBo/hFYMc-k93CcaC4c4Z2IXfjrXUTY7unq8gCLcBGAs/s640/P1010732.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>once a county boundary between Westmorland and Lancashire before they moved the administrative borders in the 1970s but it is still a parish boundary.&nbsp; Time to journey on<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GsjQlD_mOws/WYDh6ED3R1I/AAAAAAAAPB4/l-eY6D3rOZEcSdo4Zi7uaqlFrSfFviN2gCLcBGAs/s1600/P1010741.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1139" data-original-width="1600" height="452" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GsjQlD_mOws/WYDh6ED3R1I/AAAAAAAAPB4/l-eY6D3rOZEcSdo4Zi7uaqlFrSfFviN2gCLcBGAs/s640/P1010741.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">and follow the signpost.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet, this week sojourning at D <a href="https://abcwednesday.com/2017/07/31/abc-wednesday-d/" target="_blank">here</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b2pYIJHtjUU/WYDpdpjZt7I/AAAAAAAAPCU/xdbWgC9paRUZ9viWZNY8BWBNHhDaa1H3gCLcBGAs/s1600/abc21logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b2pYIJHtjUU/WYDpdpjZt7I/AAAAAAAAPCU/xdbWgC9paRUZ9viWZNY8BWBNHhDaa1H3gCLcBGAs/s320/abc21logo.png" width="290" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.com7Hall Dunnerdale, Broughton-in-Furness LA20, UK54.345506 -3.214599000000021128.8234715 -44.52319300000002 79.8675405 38.093994999999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130999193823092450.post-33770287689989928692017-07-18T20:22:00.000+01:002017-07-18T20:22:42.560+01:00Bray<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e9FHbOth7BA/WW5GnRDNV0I/AAAAAAAAO-k/DD-AjWeU9T4sajGtTMJjrYQW3imTIq2GwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030476.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e9FHbOth7BA/WW5GnRDNV0I/AAAAAAAAO-k/DD-AjWeU9T4sajGtTMJjrYQW3imTIq2GwCLcBGAs/s400/P1030476.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Bray is a seaside town on the east coast of Ireland just about 12 miles (20k) south of Dublin in County Wicklow.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xUGWJGv1OLw/WW5HYUhnE1I/AAAAAAAAO-o/zVWVn4dQ5JU4tkx9vFzqCwkEO5oKcBMdQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1092" data-original-width="1600" height="435" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xUGWJGv1OLw/WW5HYUhnE1I/AAAAAAAAO-o/zVWVn4dQ5JU4tkx9vFzqCwkEO5oKcBMdQCLcBGAs/s640/P1030474.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I visited in June so the summer season was yet to be in full swing with its bandstand concerts.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IR6rrqs3qLE/WW5I6JiTbBI/AAAAAAAAO-s/B6IrcOndcEwqwqkQDxukokDDDJ7k1gtdwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030212.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1119" data-original-width="1600" height="278" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IR6rrqs3qLE/WW5I6JiTbBI/AAAAAAAAO-s/B6IrcOndcEwqwqkQDxukokDDDJ7k1gtdwCLcBGAs/s400/P1030212.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>but the little striped huts selling ice cream and all the usual beach paraphernalia were open. The mound in the background is Bray Head from where can be seen the<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cRdyjas2Flk/WW5I6dfWBuI/AAAAAAAAO-w/vlCYCCS3QpAeLr-KySkLj1JG6i_FaMqmwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1030216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cRdyjas2Flk/WW5I6dfWBuI/AAAAAAAAO-w/vlCYCCS3QpAeLr-KySkLj1JG6i_FaMqmwCEwYBhgL/s640/P1030216.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>full sweep of the bay <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pqlC9xcjhs4/WW5MSBWAgaI/AAAAAAAAO-4/T-qlChDoeN4daeoaX7Se4HYSBL6pjDpPwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030240%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pqlC9xcjhs4/WW5MSBWAgaI/AAAAAAAAO-4/T-qlChDoeN4daeoaX7Se4HYSBL6pjDpPwCLcBGAs/s640/P1030240%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Someone rock pooling or bait digging is intent on a smaller universe here.&nbsp; In the summer there are also outdoor movies on the beach every fortnight which is appropriate because <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SHyR3k4xtHc/WW5Mn8JwtrI/AAAAAAAAO-8/SmoQQBjjTOEIGe-GJ8jI8rKXSKYOmnCSgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030501%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1045" data-original-width="1600" height="417" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SHyR3k4xtHc/WW5Mn8JwtrI/AAAAAAAAO-8/SmoQQBjjTOEIGe-GJ8jI8rKXSKYOmnCSgCLcBGAs/s640/P1030501%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Bray is also the centre of the Irish film industry and we happened to catch one of the studios setting up the cameras here at The Bray Head Hotel as we walked past. The hotel is located on the path up to Bray Head at the end of the promenade. &nbsp; Built in 1862 it has been used in a number of films in the past including The Commitments, a film which happens to be set in Dublin which is just a train ride away<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J9TtNVuNiuQ/WW5Spzp7DHI/AAAAAAAAO_E/62Wy9OPBLbMhMJzVABQHXQeBTPC1ji9jACLcBGAs/s1600/P1030238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J9TtNVuNiuQ/WW5Spzp7DHI/AAAAAAAAO_E/62Wy9OPBLbMhMJzVABQHXQeBTPC1ji9jACLcBGAs/s400/P1030238.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>on the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transport) seen here rounding Bray Head on the Dublin-Wicklow line which was designed by the great Isambard Kingdom Brunel although at the time it was called Brunel's Folly because of the high maintenance cost of running the line along cliff edges. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-olZTOkAiL0s/WW5VKd4I2RI/AAAAAAAAO_I/gTlzWvz54ts7qUgU4shZGrldMf_eqk6XQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030497.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-olZTOkAiL0s/WW5VKd4I2RI/AAAAAAAAO_I/gTlzWvz54ts7qUgU4shZGrldMf_eqk6XQCLcBGAs/s400/P1030497.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Time to relax and take a dip in the Irish Sea, the red and yellow flags are flying meaning its safe, the colour coordinated lifeguards are also in place so<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SCr_nku2CXE/WW5XkJw6p0I/AAAAAAAAO_M/6F5xndr0WEgamAAdAKmhp4ygtXjI9On3ACLcBGAs/s1600/P1030213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SCr_nku2CXE/WW5XkJw6p0I/AAAAAAAAO_M/6F5xndr0WEgamAAdAKmhp4ygtXjI9On3ACLcBGAs/s400/P1030213.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>&nbsp;dive in.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet, this week sojourning at B<a href="https://abcwednesday.com/2017/07/18/b-for-beasties/" target="_blank"> here</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4aa7kMDryuo/WW5ZE79IDLI/AAAAAAAAO_Q/LPmx2H-B_sAZhdd79XbG7lp5t1iQ5PQ5QCLcBGAs/s1600/abc21logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="500" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4aa7kMDryuo/WW5ZE79IDLI/AAAAAAAAO_Q/LPmx2H-B_sAZhdd79XbG7lp5t1iQ5PQ5QCLcBGAs/s200/abc21logo.png" width="181" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />&nbsp; <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.com14Bray, Co. Wicklow, Ireland53.200903 -6.111074099999996253.1628535 -6.1917550999999964 53.238952499999996 -6.030393099999996tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130999193823092450.post-91764972549020688892017-07-11T22:26:00.000+01:002017-07-11T22:26:17.816+01:00Tootling Along the Anglesey Coast<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AwsTdOabKig/WWUxajZFltI/AAAAAAAAO78/-bQHO2zpYwA6b1FZ-j70qeZ5O-2L-8-EQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1020932.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AwsTdOabKig/WWUxajZFltI/AAAAAAAAO78/-bQHO2zpYwA6b1FZ-j70qeZ5O-2L-8-EQCLcBGAs/s400/P1020932.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>We were travelling to Ireland last month but took the opportunity to stay overnight on the Welsh island of Anglesey at a hotel on Bull Bay on the north coast. Our hotel window looked over the bay and as we were in the middle of a heatwave the waters glistened in the sunlight.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aY2siWOMNao/WWUygxhNbJI/AAAAAAAAO8E/8I2eQWfhTdce_CeYMtBum5tp1mdLq4vZACLcBGAs/s1600/P1020933.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aY2siWOMNao/WWUygxhNbJI/AAAAAAAAO8E/8I2eQWfhTdce_CeYMtBum5tp1mdLq4vZACLcBGAs/s400/P1020933.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>The coast weaves and crimkles in a mixture of bays, inlets and caves.&nbsp; It is a popular destination for geology field trips because of the complexity and age of the rocks.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZP5DiYEhI7w/WWUztQXUEBI/AAAAAAAAO8Q/ybTevzCIlNo_DvAkYIilCQBdW98BDu4hwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1020937.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZP5DiYEhI7w/WWUztQXUEBI/AAAAAAAAO8Q/ybTevzCIlNo_DvAkYIilCQBdW98BDu4hwCLcBGAs/s400/P1020937.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>They can share their enthusiasm with those who prefer flora and fauna<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6shB2PgXFTg/WWU0HJib6dI/AAAAAAAAO8U/ujM_RCEx7GIHmKI_OQs_338ud2QoMExuQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1020938.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="250" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6shB2PgXFTg/WWU0HJib6dI/AAAAAAAAO8U/ujM_RCEx7GIHmKI_OQs_338ud2QoMExuQCLcBGAs/s400/P1020938.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>and who walk along the coastal path.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3Jma77t6TBM/WWU02mL8SgI/AAAAAAAAO8c/Et-a1fvIxkcOcsPRf2GDp_MDQ5MUL29swCLcBGAs/s1600/P1020934.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1126" data-original-width="1600" height="281" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3Jma77t6TBM/WWU02mL8SgI/AAAAAAAAO8c/Et-a1fvIxkcOcsPRf2GDp_MDQ5MUL29swCLcBGAs/s400/P1020934.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />The next day we took a leisurely drive along the coast road<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CSWxFGMlpDg/WWU1Q5V04KI/AAAAAAAAO8g/i3OD3ObubTMxsqo927Of4hz_3FqNIM2GgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1020950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CSWxFGMlpDg/WWU1Q5V04KI/AAAAAAAAO8g/i3OD3ObubTMxsqo927Of4hz_3FqNIM2GgCLcBGAs/s400/P1020950.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Standing Stone and Wylfa Nuclear Power Station, near Cemaes Bay </i></td></tr></tbody></table>and admired some of the standing stones we passed along the way. The area is rich in megalithic monuments.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RNu4jHCoCRY/WWU2ae1ZXbI/AAAAAAAAO8k/6xGtyFICgawia7HGRJewVLvoPc8JI4RQwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1020955.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RNu4jHCoCRY/WWU2ae1ZXbI/AAAAAAAAO8k/6xGtyFICgawia7HGRJewVLvoPc8JI4RQwCLcBGAs/s400/P1020955.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Trefadog</i></td></tr></tbody></table>We were nearing our destination of Holyhead whose hill can be seen in the distance when we stopped at this little shingle and sand bay.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nIuVIRrlDKo/WWU31dVSaUI/AAAAAAAAO8w/UBGayvX-xx0XvjUyZUubDpGwi1HdhchbwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1020956.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1006" data-original-width="1600" height="251" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nIuVIRrlDKo/WWU31dVSaUI/AAAAAAAAO8w/UBGayvX-xx0XvjUyZUubDpGwi1HdhchbwCLcBGAs/s400/P1020956.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>and my little Lumix zoomed to its limit to catch the high speed ferry making its way into port.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iswk9jz5a74/WWU4vUSl5nI/AAAAAAAAO80/g1l8UbfPSMAJ05Vl6Y8NsMd8ZfQ-d-u8gCLcBGAs/s1600/P1020959.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iswk9jz5a74/WWU4vUSl5nI/AAAAAAAAO80/g1l8UbfPSMAJ05Vl6Y8NsMd8ZfQ-d-u8gCLcBGAs/s400/P1020959.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>The Dublin Swift catamaran&nbsp; twin hulls lowered now makes a leisurely entrance. Although the name suggests speed it is actually named after the Irish poet, satirist and political pamphleteer Jonathan Swift (1667-1745)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7XpZyPwt1P4/WWU7GflKXnI/AAAAAAAAO88/2TjUFxr0Pbw6nLTj1DwVTyGjoAf7Dnj-gCLcBGAs/s1600/P1020984.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7XpZyPwt1P4/WWU7GflKXnI/AAAAAAAAO88/2TjUFxr0Pbw6nLTj1DwVTyGjoAf7Dnj-gCLcBGAs/s400/P1020984.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Later in the day I'm standing on the deck of rather rather more sedate transport while trying to get a framed picture of a passing ship as the vessel sways and we are on our way from Anglesey across the Irish Sea to Dublin.&nbsp; <br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QEP2S_bySME/WWU-j7aHWQI/AAAAAAAAO9M/Sf2a96UONpwAqL9N3QM4BOfEWNJTrthiQCLcBGAs/s1600/abc21wednesday040717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="1600" height="80" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QEP2S_bySME/WWU-j7aHWQI/AAAAAAAAO9M/Sf2a96UONpwAqL9N3QM4BOfEWNJTrthiQCLcBGAs/s320/abc21wednesday040717.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet, now in its new home with Melody at the helm.&nbsp; The 21st round starts <a href="https://abcwednesday.com/2017/07/10/round-21-a/" target="_blank">here</a> <br />&nbsp; <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />&nbsp; Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.com11Anglesey, United Kingdom53.265325 -4.429140299999971852.961506 -5.0745872999999717 53.569143999999994 -3.7836932999999719tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130999193823092450.post-43397747623221159562017-07-04T20:07:00.000+01:002017-07-04T20:07:54.653+01:00Zoom<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W7Q6aZTaDnQ/WVvabV6XPEI/AAAAAAAAO58/j07N4eYX5pEXavHVv9V1tzHYJBXU8JDUwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1030327.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W7Q6aZTaDnQ/WVvabV6XPEI/AAAAAAAAO58/j07N4eYX5pEXavHVv9V1tzHYJBXU8JDUwCLcBGAs/s640/P1030327.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Briefly settling among the Rose of Sharon or Hypericum is a Meadow Brown butterfly which are on the wing from June to August but before I could zoom in any further it had flown on its busy way to make the most of summer.&nbsp; These little brown butterflies are quite similar to the Gatekeeper butterfly but can be distinguished by the fact that they have only one dot in their wing 'eye' whereas the Gatekeeper has two.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DlKQs8TseRE/WVvcseg4_KI/AAAAAAAAO6M/u5lQhd8C12MAfjFKtAtkWlfGk8uhJ939gCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000195.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DlKQs8TseRE/WVvcseg4_KI/AAAAAAAAO6M/u5lQhd8C12MAfjFKtAtkWlfGk8uhJ939gCLcBGAs/s640/P1000195.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I imagine the dots on these rhododendron would identify them but all I know is I thought them pretty as I zoomed in for a closer look.<br /><br />This is the nearest I could find to a letter Z in my collection for the last letter of the alphabet<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LN4-7mXX7v4/WVveeBzLuRI/AAAAAAAAO6Y/6PZ6QQO4EIEertrWz-BX6vBHiqz-s1WfACLcBGAs/s1600/P1010742%2B-%2BCopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="510" data-original-width="635" height="321" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LN4-7mXX7v4/WVveeBzLuRI/AAAAAAAAO6Y/6PZ6QQO4EIEertrWz-BX6vBHiqz-s1WfACLcBGAs/s400/P1010742%2B-%2BCopy.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>which warns that one could by zapped by electricity if vaulting over the fence, not only that but the double helix sign warns that the "<i>premises are marked by a security system using a DNA system</i>" so when laying comatose or dead&nbsp; perhaps one would be adding even more DNA. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QI5k4O8YxoY/WVveeqWhFAI/AAAAAAAAO6c/SyoQNXL4tScs3jMAt0nMTtpZeb0jdz2TQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1010742.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QI5k4O8YxoY/WVveeqWhFAI/AAAAAAAAO6c/SyoQNXL4tScs3jMAt0nMTtpZeb0jdz2TQCLcBGAs/s400/P1010742.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Stay safe, heed the warning, but don't ignore the post box for sending words on paper&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">but for those in electronic format next week's post will be in the new home of ABC Wednesday hosted by Melody so the invite is for everyone to zoom over there and zap in your entry on July the 12th and begin the&nbsp;<a href="https://abcwednesday.com/" target="_blank"> 21st Round of ABC Wednesday. &nbsp; </a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet this week&nbsp; for the last time at Z <a href="http://abcwednesday-mrsnesbitt.blogspot.co.uk/2017/07/z-is-for-zero-hour.html" target="_blank">here</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JTYoLjijYnI/WVvlPnBMbYI/AAAAAAAAO6s/ghk-RpumjVo2wLdV3Uvkbzran-mPlrQyACLcBGAs/s1600/ABCRound20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="589" data-original-width="589" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JTYoLjijYnI/WVvlPnBMbYI/AAAAAAAAO6s/ghk-RpumjVo2wLdV3Uvkbzran-mPlrQyACLcBGAs/s320/ABCRound20.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130999193823092450.post-61741182023449756942017-06-16T01:12:00.001+01:002017-06-16T01:12:38.924+01:00Away<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-csjaWEwDN1Q/WUMg9r8mf1I/AAAAAAAAO5s/MDSdp9UNTwA5Rw-wW4dBi0sBkKfe-1uUgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1020923.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-csjaWEwDN1Q/WUMg9r8mf1I/AAAAAAAAO5s/MDSdp9UNTwA5Rw-wW4dBi0sBkKfe-1uUgCLcBGAs/s400/P1020923.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Oriental Poppy</i></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">A Raft of Apples will be quiet for a few weeks as I take a hop skip and a jump over to the Emerald Isle. </div>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130999193823092450.post-91443569524400053722017-06-13T22:27:00.000+01:002017-06-13T22:29:51.209+01:00Wishes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4eqsDUYoi5g/WUBEb7rxP2I/AAAAAAAAO44/o2izbmIghCANW8lQ5hEojfdFhipdV9lZwCEw/s1600/P1020796.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4eqsDUYoi5g/WUBEb7rxP2I/AAAAAAAAO44/o2izbmIghCANW8lQ5hEojfdFhipdV9lZwCEw/s400/P1020796.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>We've had a lot of elections in the UK recently, last month it was for the local councilors, this month a unexpected snap election for national government which turned out to have an unexpected result of a hung parliament so we have yet more chaos wished on us by the incumbent government.&nbsp; My local polling station is Cambridge Street Primary School who were enjoying the election because it meant they had an unexpected day off.&nbsp; There is always something interesting on the wall at the cloakroom entrance to the classrooms, last year there were rather impressive paintings done by the children inspired by famous paintings by people like Van Gogh, Monet and Da Vinci, this year there were balloon wishes <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-crUEMR0ghv4/WUBEbADIItI/AAAAAAAAO4w/JlFjYUIh7xY4dTvM9wTseXJDhYmu5x9lwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1020792.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-crUEMR0ghv4/WUBEbADIItI/AAAAAAAAO4w/JlFjYUIh7xY4dTvM9wTseXJDhYmu5x9lwCEwYBhgL/s400/P1020792.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">such as the wish "to go to every party I'm invited to"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--QGBMqQ0nY4/WUBEaxMueXI/AAAAAAAAO4s/j8jrreZnsSglxfRPjWgDvA2aRXKqkd6BwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1020793.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--QGBMqQ0nY4/WUBEaxMueXI/AAAAAAAAO4s/j8jrreZnsSglxfRPjWgDvA2aRXKqkd6BwCEwYBhgL/s400/P1020793.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">"Open a Sweet Shop" - "Play in the Yard with My Dog"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wHCODSfkV_E/WUBEafL47OI/AAAAAAAAO4o/7W9Ud0D6lKcwW3k8B-QOJVpSOp6TfpTZwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1020794.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wHCODSfkV_E/WUBEafL47OI/AAAAAAAAO4o/7W9Ud0D6lKcwW3k8B-QOJVpSOp6TfpTZwCEwYBhgL/s400/P1020794.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">"To Have A Sleep In" - "To Be Famous"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hvxIosZZHtI/WUBEbWDrQCI/AAAAAAAAO40/foiiHWfZqM0J1YZMu9u87MUF_zwa_ErZQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1020795.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hvxIosZZHtI/WUBEbWDrQCI/AAAAAAAAO40/foiiHWfZqM0J1YZMu9u87MUF_zwa_ErZQCEwYBhgL/s400/P1020795.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">"To work at a snake centre"</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FKlrAZrJ93c/WUBEhoTyoUI/AAAAAAAAO48/Db_zBRt514kpDkmSw2Ye9ihmOJdVDNmYgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1020927%2B-%2BCopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1058" data-original-width="1600" height="263" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FKlrAZrJ93c/WUBEhoTyoUI/AAAAAAAAO48/Db_zBRt514kpDkmSw2Ye9ihmOJdVDNmYgCEwYBhgL/s400/P1020927%2B-%2BCopy.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>There were lots more such as "To be able to eat loads of sweets" (not the person to be employed by the child who wanted to open a sweet shop), "Go To France" or someone wanted to go even further and "Go To Asia" although one homebody only wanted to "Go To Southport" (a seaside resort just down the coast) and a sporting enthusiast wanted "To Go To Old Trafford".<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XprdN5kSDzo/WUBEh2i6PvI/AAAAAAAAO5A/F0Q9O654wUwO2MQozUP4gN90IlVUsqBLgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1020927.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1228" data-original-width="1600" height="306" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XprdN5kSDzo/WUBEh2i6PvI/AAAAAAAAO5A/F0Q9O654wUwO2MQozUP4gN90IlVUsqBLgCEwYBhgL/s400/P1020927.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Time for me to vote and follow the arrows around the corner and wish we we were not leaving the European Union, wish for better politicians and wish there were not evil psychopaths who blow children up in the city of Manchester, home to the football ground of that last child's wish. But I will not end on a negative note and wish for hope not hate and also wish that our children's dreams can come true.&nbsp; <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet, this week sojourning at W <a href="http://abcwednesday-mrsnesbitt.blogspot.co.uk/2017/06/w-is-for-wisdom.html" target="_blank">here&nbsp;</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-meXeFNQ5LiQ/WUBSPh9qovI/AAAAAAAAO5M/FZBntsEyG3oakut839lgRjgiMR0ocQK6gCLcBGAs/s1600/ABCRound20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="589" data-original-width="589" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-meXeFNQ5LiQ/WUBSPh9qovI/AAAAAAAAO5M/FZBntsEyG3oakut839lgRjgiMR0ocQK6gCLcBGAs/s200/ABCRound20.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><br />Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130999193823092450.post-1386442017721016342017-06-06T19:43:00.001+01:002017-06-06T19:47:17.185+01:00Viewing Platform<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7Txe4ySJpF8/WTbuwNt441I/AAAAAAAAO2o/XAk8E_28qAgmVr12WWOCLhf6QXWZcmoSgCLcB/s1600/P1020769.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7Txe4ySJpF8/WTbuwNt441I/AAAAAAAAO2o/XAk8E_28qAgmVr12WWOCLhf6QXWZcmoSgCLcB/s400/P1020769.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>A viewing platform set on top of a knoll in Millom Park, in olden times this area was once a deer park connected with the castle, but today it is a forestry plantation.&nbsp; We had set off for a walk in sunshine but as can be seen from the photograph by the time we reached this point the weather had changed.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nipiZyfGFbc/WTbuvANQ4-I/AAAAAAAAO2w/vEDozl5YdYgPwEvAVuhh8K8h4SM7fGZNQCEw/s1600/P1020766.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nipiZyfGFbc/WTbuvANQ4-I/AAAAAAAAO2w/vEDozl5YdYgPwEvAVuhh8K8h4SM7fGZNQCEw/s400/P1020766.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The viewing platform is a sturdy structure but with a nice shaped struts. On a clear day there are good views of the hills</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MMWBwkUly2w/WTbuvMTwzfI/AAAAAAAAO2w/o_CsjzdiuccZS2ehHdZ8CHsIC5KWZQy6wCEw/s1600/P1020767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MMWBwkUly2w/WTbuvMTwzfI/AAAAAAAAO2w/o_CsjzdiuccZS2ehHdZ8CHsIC5KWZQy6wCEw/s400/P1020767.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>and the estuary, but as you see this was not a clear day so I concentrated my happy snapping on the viewing platform.&nbsp; A few years ago the fir trees had grown tall <a href="http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/2911614" target="_blank">obscuring some of the view</a> but&nbsp; <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mJLJWmSlUSc/WTbuwcd8wqI/AAAAAAAAO2w/fd_T6vSuekM7QuOS-l1a2Kmpfbw6cHPSwCEw/s1600/P1020770.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mJLJWmSlUSc/WTbuwcd8wqI/AAAAAAAAO2w/fd_T6vSuekM7QuOS-l1a2Kmpfbw6cHPSwCEw/s400/P1020770.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">the chain saw has been swung so now the knoll looks quite desolate. I imagine they will replant but this coming summer will soon green it up. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vPYCJQRDJSE/WTb3ZJSJQyI/AAAAAAAAO3I/kfsEKIgyM3IP9mE2-4qiIjQILwhUhnpXwCLcB/s1600/P1020763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vPYCJQRDJSE/WTb3ZJSJQyI/AAAAAAAAO3I/kfsEKIgyM3IP9mE2-4qiIjQILwhUhnpXwCLcB/s400/P1020763.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">In the meantime the views will be magnificent, weather permitting.&nbsp; I must pick my day better next time.&nbsp; </div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet,&nbsp; this week sojourning at V <a href="http://abcwednesday-mrsnesbitt.blogspot.co.uk/2017/06/v-is-for-vim-and-vigor.html" target="_blank">here&nbsp;</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p4utgQlfgbE/WTb1nwvHVsI/AAAAAAAAO28/EjJw_nwthXQfUuhAjlvkkFnkiQigsFgIQCLcB/s1600/ABCRound20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="589" data-original-width="589" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p4utgQlfgbE/WTb1nwvHVsI/AAAAAAAAO28/EjJw_nwthXQfUuhAjlvkkFnkiQigsFgIQCLcB/s200/ABCRound20.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130999193823092450.post-31999746527182400822017-05-30T22:25:00.000+01:002017-05-30T22:25:55.491+01:00Unwind<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CfOszBJUik0/WS3NOmqFFNI/AAAAAAAAOzs/-hJjNt2aA5w3CxZ_AZE_AnfQIRox5j0DQCLcB/s1600/P1020917.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CfOszBJUik0/WS3NOmqFFNI/AAAAAAAAOzs/-hJjNt2aA5w3CxZ_AZE_AnfQIRox5j0DQCLcB/s640/P1020917.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">A golden brown cow unwinds on a hillside on a warm late spring day</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lpYy5zkS52A/WS3NS_bsQCI/AAAAAAAAOz4/5v0HZhnfaFAEPF8gmFCHCBx1Asnku8zDgCEw/s1600/P1020916.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lpYy5zkS52A/WS3NS_bsQCI/AAAAAAAAOz4/5v0HZhnfaFAEPF8gmFCHCBx1Asnku8zDgCEw/s400/P1020916.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">My grandmother told me cows lying down can be a prediction of a good weather, or rain and thunderstorms, depending on whether they lie at the top or bottom of a hill. Pity I can't remember which she said was which.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u1LbtI_XMgE/WS3NTKBaozI/AAAAAAAAOz4/7WuUDod9IFcQg7NnNviEfwC0c0ieHteMwCEw/s1600/P1020919.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="868" data-original-width="1600" height="344" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u1LbtI_XMgE/WS3NTKBaozI/AAAAAAAAOz4/7WuUDod9IFcQg7NnNviEfwC0c0ieHteMwCEw/s640/P1020919.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;It seemed as everyone was chilling out and unwinding </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aoqCm78XASY/WS3P_II0SLI/AAAAAAAAO0A/_6Se8AJITf4HsYaaxT2zXk7Uwk3IYajiQCLcB/s1600/P1020913.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aoqCm78XASY/WS3P_II0SLI/AAAAAAAAO0A/_6Se8AJITf4HsYaaxT2zXk7Uwk3IYajiQCLcB/s400/P1020913.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;or under shade.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Take time to unwind as the wandering Welsh poet WH Davies most famous poem says -&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">'Leisure'</div><blockquote class="templatequote"><div style="text-align: center;"><blockquote class="tr_bq"><blockquote class="tr_bq"><blockquote class="tr_bq"> <dl><dd>What is this life if, full of care,</dd><dd>We have no time to stand and stare.</dd></dl><dl><dd>No time to stand beneath the boughs</dd><dd>And stare as long as sheep or cows.</dd></dl><dl><dd>No time to see, when woods we pass,</dd><dd>Where squirrels hide their nuts in grass.</dd></dl><dl><dd>No time to see, in broad daylight,</dd><dd>Streams full of stars, like skies at night.</dd></dl><dl><dd>No time to turn at Beauty's glance,</dd><dd>And watch her feet, how they can dance.</dd></dl><dl><dd>No time to wait till her mouth can</dd><dd>Enrich that smile her eyes began.</dd></dl><dl><dd>A poor life this if, full of care,</dd><dd>We have no time to stand and stare.</dd></dl></blockquote></blockquote></blockquote></div></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xEZdlVdsum8/WS3h7JCu9-I/AAAAAAAAO0k/lUobkrk3Ufkb3P6NrkB3tSZMkVyeeWTmACLcB/s1600/11104604515_f025dfb195_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="120" data-original-width="517" height="91" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xEZdlVdsum8/WS3h7JCu9-I/AAAAAAAAO0k/lUobkrk3Ufkb3P6NrkB3tSZMkVyeeWTmACLcB/s400/11104604515_f025dfb195_z.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet, this week sojourning at U <a href="http://abcwednesday-mrsnesbitt.blogspot.co.uk/2017/05/u-is-for-unity.html" target="_blank">here</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dEvtIZcXKmg/WS3YLOVr_sI/AAAAAAAAO0U/hjbsEtEcNnQzN2o0asGZNFQ_h5k2EPtawCLcB/s1600/ABCRound20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="589" data-original-width="589" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dEvtIZcXKmg/WS3YLOVr_sI/AAAAAAAAO0U/hjbsEtEcNnQzN2o0asGZNFQ_h5k2EPtawCLcB/s320/ABCRound20.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130999193823092450.post-62418084565496061142017-05-23T20:40:00.000+01:002017-05-23T20:40:52.191+01:00Timber Trees and Tractors<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vqsYQRls2kc/WSSBviyuaOI/AAAAAAAAOxg/Ek-DV6K1t94y7mvFrWSKxFDtm64Jb6TOQCLcB/s1600/P1020839.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vqsYQRls2kc/WSSBviyuaOI/AAAAAAAAOxg/Ek-DV6K1t94y7mvFrWSKxFDtm64Jb6TOQCLcB/s400/P1020839.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>A beech tree felled because of its decayed core is neatly sliced and gives the passer by its last hurrah with a golden red glow, almost the colour of its autumn leaves.&nbsp; I wonder if a local woodturner is going to be a lucky recipient of some of this timber.<br /><br />The farmers are busy at this time of year<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bs3O7nZ2VHs/WSSBvgdWyuI/AAAAAAAAOxs/67JKGAIoDGMUDfmZ4kROgCX4yvVvFpDIwCEw/s1600/P1020873.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bs3O7nZ2VHs/WSSBvgdWyuI/AAAAAAAAOxs/67JKGAIoDGMUDfmZ4kROgCX4yvVvFpDIwCEw/s640/P1020873.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>and this one in his tractor was spreading fertilizer while his dog burned up energy covering more distance than him racing up and down the field.&nbsp; The white blossom of the hawthorn trees can be seen scattered over the Lickle Valley, although as the morning was full of heavy showers of rain they don't stand out as much as they do in reality.&nbsp; If I had only taken my walk in what turned out to be a sunny afternoon<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-59ECYZGy4hg/WSSBvX5Y8SI/AAAAAAAAOxs/9gp2nmD2IcMr_fR6RQWOBwBhBbD7sGZuQCEw/s1600/P1020832.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-59ECYZGy4hg/WSSBvX5Y8SI/AAAAAAAAOxs/9gp2nmD2IcMr_fR6RQWOBwBhBbD7sGZuQCEw/s400/P1020832.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>like this one was.&nbsp; Tranquil Broughton Towers pond but I didn't sit on the seat for it was more interesting at the waters edge where the tadpoles were in perpetual motion unlike&nbsp; <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tJ85oIiuXX4/WSSBwBGYFNI/AAAAAAAAOxs/mv_vFN2avoQ8Km9VcMHN6ghVDQyoknL4QCEw/s1600/P1020889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tJ85oIiuXX4/WSSBwBGYFNI/AAAAAAAAOxs/mv_vFN2avoQ8Km9VcMHN6ghVDQyoknL4QCEw/s400/P1020889.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">this piece of machinery which looks to be more greenhouse than tractor.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet, this week sojourning at T <a href="http://abcwednesday-mrsnesbitt.blogspot.co.uk/2017/05/t-is-for-trust.html" target="_blank">here</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gPEHx039S_o/WSSPApe_MII/AAAAAAAAOx8/Fh3hwgZx7xcfqi-GYG7-6uGHbChK8IJcgCLcB/s1600/ABCRound20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gPEHx039S_o/WSSPApe_MII/AAAAAAAAOx8/Fh3hwgZx7xcfqi-GYG7-6uGHbChK8IJcgCLcB/s200/ABCRound20.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130999193823092450.post-36517311498733755702017-05-16T20:33:00.000+01:002017-05-16T20:34:15.272+01:00Sizergh Castle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1lJmx1MeKZQ/WRtGB39C-mI/AAAAAAAAOuc/bDkuL9I9mw4Ds6TKR40Q41Gbg8tjQo7gQCLcB/s1600/P1010641.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1lJmx1MeKZQ/WRtGB39C-mI/AAAAAAAAOuc/bDkuL9I9mw4Ds6TKR40Q41Gbg8tjQo7gQCLcB/s400/P1010641.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>The tower of Sizergh Castle in Cumbria can be seen as you walk through the topiary but lets take a walk around the lake to get a better view.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V-a-a8T5_UU/WRtGBtUnVDI/AAAAAAAAOuU/ymLrdFNHUmMexnoGAkx16vn9OuRJqQQGQCEw/s1600/P1010657.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V-a-a8T5_UU/WRtGBtUnVDI/AAAAAAAAOuU/ymLrdFNHUmMexnoGAkx16vn9OuRJqQQGQCEw/s400/P1010657.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Although it has 'castle' in its name it is in fact a fortified mansion.&nbsp; The tower on he left is the earliest part of the building being 14th century <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M0vYCIRNZWE/WRtGCF87RyI/AAAAAAAAOuY/LGM5Oi-XXOAqKnm29WdmoWDFIc9NLOGyQCEw/s1600/P1010648.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M0vYCIRNZWE/WRtGCF87RyI/AAAAAAAAOuY/LGM5Oi-XXOAqKnm29WdmoWDFIc9NLOGyQCEw/s400/P1010648.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">but the house is Tudor ( a century later)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7vrptqHFBho/WRtIH3XTYuI/AAAAAAAAOuk/lC7GoepzDxcVbA3nHt4xlvdgApXSpafJACLcB/s1600/P1010685.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7vrptqHFBho/WRtIH3XTYuI/AAAAAAAAOuk/lC7GoepzDxcVbA3nHt4xlvdgApXSpafJACLcB/s400/P1010685.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">with the wings built around a central courtyard.&nbsp; </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LbR-T4--DiQ/WRtQJ0dqL9I/AAAAAAAAOvA/G-ysdQ5U1h4sI4TS28Ya5Izgo9YZaEpcQCLcB/s1600/P1010686.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LbR-T4--DiQ/WRtQJ0dqL9I/AAAAAAAAOvA/G-ysdQ5U1h4sI4TS28Ya5Izgo9YZaEpcQCLcB/s400/P1010686.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Sizergh sits among 1,600 acres of pasture, orchards and woodlands and the house is surrounded by woods, kitchen garden, lakes, a limestone rock garden and flower garden but also the latest addition<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-th7oJy5flYY/WRtJft89m0I/AAAAAAAAOuo/S6mdnacMBpoVCWQFahkZFNIK0QmoQhfCACLcB/s1600/P1010678.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-th7oJy5flYY/WRtJft89m0I/AAAAAAAAOuo/S6mdnacMBpoVCWQFahkZFNIK0QmoQhfCACLcB/s400/P1010678.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>a stumpery.&nbsp; These features take their name from the stumps of trees and reclaimed wood that form a horticultural scaffolding where ferns, mosses and other shade loving plants are grown to look like a natural setting and of course they attract wildlife such as small mammals, beetles and birds. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-muA1HzllYio/WRtLmok_MhI/AAAAAAAAOus/_WYG3fiipZwmnin_ObzTM8HR-Nr3MvGcwCLcB/s1600/P1010679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-muA1HzllYio/WRtLmok_MhI/AAAAAAAAOus/_WYG3fiipZwmnin_ObzTM8HR-Nr3MvGcwCLcB/s320/P1010679.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">When it matures and becomes an explosion of green it will be a must see attraction for the fern lover</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vTbeAPvPQkk/WRtNgee1ZWI/AAAAAAAAOuw/s2TmgAppu3A1Kwu4rK2rSzEX1-u9ieJjACLcB/s1600/P1010677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vTbeAPvPQkk/WRtNgee1ZWI/AAAAAAAAOuw/s2TmgAppu3A1Kwu4rK2rSzEX1-u9ieJjACLcB/s400/P1010677.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">but there is always lots to see through the lens for a photographer.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet this week sojourning at the letter S <a href="http://abcwednesday-mrsnesbitt.blogspot.co.uk/2017/05/20-s-signal.html" target="_blank">here</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XFLBx9nCTkA/WRtR4OO5CJI/AAAAAAAAOvM/6YcWOYAX7bYp_NYAppPWTUQlueZ_dCXuACLcB/s1600/ABCRound20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XFLBx9nCTkA/WRtR4OO5CJI/AAAAAAAAOvM/6YcWOYAX7bYp_NYAppPWTUQlueZ_dCXuACLcB/s200/ABCRound20.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />&nbsp; Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130999193823092450.post-41689066246333268262017-05-09T21:13:00.000+01:002017-05-09T21:13:01.027+01:00Recycled<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nmUqteVJAgo/WRIUWHRspRI/AAAAAAAAOsM/JSMZ8nKIYs4iKVMv0kAfpgExJTN6h0c0wCLcB/s1600/P1020109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="505" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nmUqteVJAgo/WRIUWHRspRI/AAAAAAAAOsM/JSMZ8nKIYs4iKVMv0kAfpgExJTN6h0c0wCLcB/s640/P1020109.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>At Wakefield Wharf hangs a jolly recycled figure, from the crown I think that he must be master of all he surveys, here rules King Scrap.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ypE5uwPuA_4/WRIV4zFoA6I/AAAAAAAAOsg/1rOdeforLIUH8RC8Rs9qtTnR7_iQr4irgCLcB/s1600/P1020757.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ypE5uwPuA_4/WRIV4zFoA6I/AAAAAAAAOsg/1rOdeforLIUH8RC8Rs9qtTnR7_iQr4irgCLcB/s400/P1020757.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Closer to my home turf is Millom Park plantation consisting mainly of conifers (spruce, larch and pine) where there is extensive logging going on at the moment. Nothing goes to waste when one can build a series of what I can only describe as lean-to wigwams, a nice place to relax and shelter from the weather, made complete with bespoke log seating.&nbsp; The past winter has been unusually warm, which I consider a good thing. although it does come with a downside when walking (or working) in the countryside, mud, and lots of it. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cApXvJ2Dg28/WRIV5UTNywI/AAAAAAAAOso/cJOKYbyfcBMt3X0qmfU2oPLkh1Boj3pVACEw/s1600/P1020761.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cApXvJ2Dg28/WRIV5UTNywI/AAAAAAAAOso/cJOKYbyfcBMt3X0qmfU2oPLkh1Boj3pVACEw/s400/P1020761.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>Not a problem when one can slice a tree up into steps and rise above it all.&nbsp; |However the photograph was taken this month and things have changed considerably.&nbsp; This spring we have had a long period without any rain so everything is extremely dry but it was still enjoyable to skip from smooth step to step up the path.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet, this week sojourning at R<a href="http://abcwednesday-mrsnesbitt.blogspot.co.uk/2017/05/r-is-for-reflection.html" target="_blank"> here&nbsp;</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AKaTkNCw4UE/WRIhzetBr8I/AAAAAAAAOtA/EEu8NuDvHcoUBuger_DCNoPjj3jHGoVtACLcB/s1600/ABCRound20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AKaTkNCw4UE/WRIhzetBr8I/AAAAAAAAOtA/EEu8NuDvHcoUBuger_DCNoPjj3jHGoVtACLcB/s320/ABCRound20.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; </div>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00253875352864018195noreply@blogger.com6